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Creamy One-Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta

A close-up of creamy Cajun sausage pasta featuring penne, sliced sausage, green and red peppers, garnished with parsley.

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Make a flavorful, spicy Cajun sausage pasta in a single pot for quick cleanup and weeknight satisfaction.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces dry pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Place the sliced sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until the sausage is browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the olive oil to the pot if needed. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Stir well to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally.
  6. Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through. Do not boil after adding the cream.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper.
  • Use Kielbasa if Andouille sausage is unavailable; it provides a similar smoky flavor.
  • For a thicker sauce, let the pasta sit uncovered for a few extra minutes after adding the cream.

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